Blackjack is one of the most popular card games in both online and traditional casinos. Although the rules are simple, to win consistently, players need to master the strategy and know how to handle each specific situation. This article from In 999 will provide a complete guide on how to play Blackjack, especially when to hit, stand, double down, and split according to the basic strategy chart that has been proven effective over time.
1. Overview of Blackjack
Blackjack, also known as “21”, is a card game between the player and the dealer. The goal is to have a total score close to or equal to 21 but not exceeding it.
Cards from 2 to 10 keep their original value.
J, Q, K cards count as 10 points.
A can count as 1 or 11 depending on the situation.
The player will be dealt the first 2 cards and has the right to decide the next actions. Win if the total score is higher than the dealer but does not exceed 21.
2. Basic actions in Blackjack
The player has 4 main strategy options:
Hit: Take another card.
Stand: Do not take another card, keep the current score.
Double Down: Double the bet, only draw one more card.
Split: When you have 2 identical cards, split them into 2 independent hands and continue playing.
Choosing which action to take in each situation will directly affect the winning rate – this is when the basic strategy table comes into play.
3. Why do we need a basic Blackjack strategy table?
The basic Blackjack strategy table is built on the statistical probability of millions of games. It shows the best solution for each specific situation based on:
The total points of the player’s cards.
The dealer’s face-up card.
Although it does not guarantee a 100% win, this table helps to minimize the house edge, increasing the player’s chances of winning in the long run.
4. How to read the basic Blackjack strategy table
The strategy table is divided into 3 groups:
Hard Hand: Hands without A, or A is only counted as 1.
Soft Hand: Hands with A are counted as 11.
Pair Splitting: When there are 2 identical cards.
Players compare the total points of their cards and the dealer’s cards to choose the optimal action.
5. When to hit?
You should hit in the following cases:
When you have a hard hand of 8 points or less.
When you have a hard hand of 12-16 and the dealer has a strong hand (7-A).
When you have a soft hand such as A-2 to A-6, if the dealer has a hand of 7 or more.
This strategy is to increase your total points to compete with the dealer, especially when the dealer has a strong hand that can easily reach 17 or more.
6. When to stand?
Stand when the total is high enough and draw more to risk busting:
Hard hand of 17 or higher.
Hard hand 13–16 when the dealer has a weak hand (2–6).
Soft hand A-7 or higher when the dealer has a weak hand (2–6).
Standing at the right time helps preserve points and puts pressure back on the dealer.
7. When to Double Down?
Double Down is a profitable strategy if used at the right time:
Hard hand 9 when the dealer has a card from 3 to 6.
Hard hand 10 when the dealer has a card from 2 to 9.
Soft hand A-3 to A-7 when the dealer has a card from 4 to 6.
Note: Only double when you are sure you have an advantage and are willing to accept the risk.
8. When to Split?
Splitting pairs of the same kind is an opportunity to expand the table. Splitting is recommended in the following cases:
Always split A-A and 8-8, regardless of the dealer’s cards.
Split 2-2, 3-3, 6-6 if the dealer has 2 to 7.
Split 7-7 if the dealer has 2 to 7.
Do not split 5-5 and 10-10, as they are strong hands.
Split at the right time to double your chances of winning with potential hands.
9. Common mistakes to avoid
Hit more when you have 17 or higher (hard hand).
Do not double when the opportunity is clearly good (e.g. hard 11 with the dealer’s 6).
Split 10-10 just because you feel “lucky” – in fact it is a strong hand so you should keep it.
Do not apply the strategy table, play by feeling.
10. Tips for Applying Blackjack Strategy
Print or open the strategy sheet when playing online for quick reference.
Practice with free games before playing for real.
Tight bankroll management – don’t double or split if you don’t have enough.
Don’t count cards at online casinos – this technique is almost useless with automated card dealing systems.
Understanding when to hit, stand, double or split will help you control your Blackjack game more effectively, limit your risks and increase your winning rate. The basic strategy sheet is the best support tool for both new and professional players. Practice regularly and follow the strategy to turn Blackjack into a game that can generate consistent profits.
See more:
- Blackjack Guide: Can You Count Cards in Online Blackjack?
